by Scott Katz | Jan 15, 2025 | Cannabis Packaging
In the cannabis industry, blister packaging can be an effective option, depending on your product. However, this may not fit your brand or product selection best. We invite you to follow along as we lay out everything you need to know about blister packs.
What is Blister Packaging?
Blister pack packaging is created by heating a plastic sheet and shaping it into a bubble or pocket, known as the “blister.” This encases the entirety of your product, allowing customers to see what they’re purchasing visually.
Traditionally, blister packaging has a cardboard back, known as “face seal blister.” The plastic blister sits in front of the cardboard and contains the product. On the cardboard are elements of your brand identity and other important information.
If your product has a consistent shape, you can uniformly shape the blister to match the product’s outline. However, if your product doesn’t have consistency, you can opt for other shapes (e.g., rectangular, oval, etc.).
Can You Use Blister Packs for Cannabis Products?
Some cannabis products incorporate blister card packaging. The most popular are vaping products, where the blister is made in the shape of a disposable vape pen or cartridge.
Some brands also incorporate blisters for concentrate items. Usually, the concentrate is in a transparent jar which is then blistered onto cardboard.
While you can get creative with your custom blister box, not all products will benefit from this type of packaging. For example, customers prefer flower and edibles in other packaging types, such as Mylar bags.
What are the Types of Blister Packaging?
Blister packaging can appear in the following ways:
Face Seal Blister
The plastic blister is shaped to fit around the product and then heat-sealed to a cardboard backing. This form of blister packaging is relatively cost-effective, making it ideal for high-volume products.
Full-Face Seal Blister
The blister encases both the product and the card backing entirely. The plastic is secured to the card either by heat sealing or by sliding it through extra plastic reinforcements on the sides.
This design enhances the packaging’s durability, by making the corners more resistant to bending while also improving their appearance.
Full Card Blister
Similar to a full-face seal blister, this packaging covers the entire card. However, instead of being heat-sealed, it features flanges that wrap around the edges of the card. The card is slid into position and occasionally secured with staples.
Trapped Blister
A trapped blister is similar to a traditional blister pack, but with an added layer of cardboard in front of the plastic, shaped to fit around the blister. This design secures the plastic between the two pieces of cardboard, with the top layer die-cut to hold the product snugly.
Since it doesn’t rely on heat-sealing, this method is more cost-effective. It also enhances tamper resistance, as any attempt to remove the product visibly damages the outer cardboard. Additionally, it offers a more polished appearance by minimizing exposure to plastic.
Clamshell
Clamshell packaging, also known as clam packaging or clam packs, replaces the cardboard backing with a hinged plastic design, connected at the side or the base. Some clamshells are crafted to stand upright on store shelves, while others include a hole for hanging on racks.
They can feature a snap-close button or be heat-sealed for added security. The plastic bubble may have a uniform shape on both sides or vary in size and form to accommodate the product inside.
Pros and Cons of Blister Packaging
If you run a cannabis business and are considering blister packs for your products, here are some things to consider:
Pros
- Eco-friendly – All blister packs are made with plastic and cardboard, both recyclable materials.
- Lightweight – Blister and clam packaging are very lightweight, reducing transportation costs.
- Protection – Blister packs protect the product from damage and keep it clean. They also reveal tampering, unlike boxes that can be opened and reclosed unnoticed.
- Theft Protection – Designed in unique shapes, making it difficult for shoplifters to conceal.
- Visually Appealing – Blister packs showcase the product directly, catching the customer’s eye and making it stand out compared to boxed items.
Cons
- Plastic Waste – While plastic is recyclable, if consumers are not mindful, blister packs can create a lot of waste.
- Time-Intensive Production – Takes longer to manufacture than other packaging options.
Final Word
Blister packaging is a very effective option for certain cannabis products, such as vape pens and cartridges. This is thanks to the fact that it gives your product transparency other brands may not offer.
Interested in using blister packs for your next product? Not sure where to begin? Custom 420 is here to help! We invite you to reach out through our contact form to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the problem with blister packaging? The only problems with blister packaging are they can be pricier and require more time for production than other packaging options.
Is blister packaging cheap? Blister packs are considered one of the most cost-effective packaging options. This is thanks to the fact that they’re made from paperboard and plastic, two inexpensive materials.
What is the point of a blister pack? Since the plastic blister allows transparency for customers, it tends to leave a solid first impression. Furthermore, blister packaging allows you to get creative with your customization and showcase your brand identity.
by Scott Katz | Dec 18, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging, Vape Hardware
When it comes to custom vape hardware shipping boxes, you have a lot of options. From minimalism to luxury, you want to consider your buyer’s persona and what they look for in a vape box.
1.) Minimalist Design
Minimalist packaging is preferable when it comes to vape packaging. The simplicity and clarity are more likely to appeal to a mass audience and are preferable if you want to stray from stereotypical vape culture. If you plan to incorporate a minimalist design, you’ll want to consider the following:
- Neutral colors
- Simple typography
- Sleek finishes
Still, minimalism goes beyond aesthetics, it also incorporates simple functionality. By reducing unnecessary packaging materials, you make your product easier for the customer to open and reduce costs on your end.
2.) Personalized Packaging
When it comes to custom vape hardware shipping boxes, you have a lot of customization options. These include:
- Designs tailored to specific markets
- Engaging unboxing experience
- Exclusive artwork
- Limited-time events
When personalizing your packaging, you want to consider your brand identity. Who is your target audience? What do they think when they see your products? And what would they expect out of your packaging?
Naturally, the answers to these questions vary from brand to brand. Your marketing team should take some time to consider these factors.
Still, if your team struggles to come up with a comprehensive packaging design, you may want to consider customer-designed packaging. This is a great way to interact with your audience and discover what their interests in your brand are.
3.) Eco-Friendly Packaging
In the cannabis sector, many consumers prefer eco-friendly options. Therefore, more and more brands are developing sustainable packaging solutions. These may include:
- Biodegradable packaging
- Recyclable materials
- Reusable components
Still, beyond customer appeal, eco-friendly solutions are a great way to reduce your environmental impact. A business ethic we salute any brand that considers.
4.) Luxury Packaging
With two-thirds of Americans in support of recreational legalization, the market has matured to demand luxury and premium products. So, what does this look like in the presentation?
- Embossed designs
- Metallic foils
- Soft-touch coatings
These elements will give your packaging a premium feel. Furthermore, they provide a multi-sensory experience for customers.
5.) Coloring and Die-Cut Shapes
If you want to capture consumer attention, you may want to opt for a specific color palette and packaging shapes. These will vary depending on your brand identity – however, most cannabis vape brands opt for:
- Bold and bright colors
- Geometric patterns
- Unique shapes
Off that last point, die-cut boxes are a great way to make a solid first impression. Think about it – most vape brands simply opt for a rectangular box. If your product comes in a shape/size that accommodates your brand and customer, you’re more likely to leave a lasting impression.
6.) Transparent Packaging
Sometimes, consumers want to see the product before purchasing it. The most efficient way is through transparent (or windowed) packaging. This is a great option if you have high-end vaping products matched with quality customization.
Furthermore, transparent packaging displays honesty in your product. In other words, you’re more likely to reassure customer trust.
Final Word
There are a lot of elements to custom vape hardware shipping packaging boxes. If you’re unsure of the direction your brand should take, Custom 420 can help!
Our in-house design team creates the perfect customization for your brand identity and our manufacturing process ensures you’ll have more than enough supply promptly. Want to get started? Reach out through our contact form.
Custom Vape Hardware Shipping Boxes FAQs
What are some custom vape boxes to meet vape trends? If you’d like to see custom box design trends, we invite you to check out our Custom Boxes pages.
How to design my own custom vape boxes for my brand? Through Custom 420, you can work with a team of designers to develop the perfect vape box for your product. From there, we’ll execute the manufacturing process for you.
by Scott Katz | Nov 27, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging, Cannabis Vape
Custom vape cartridge boxes are just as essential as the vape hardware inside. They’re the customer’s first impression of your product and will leave an impact no matter the quality of the cannabis oil inside. Therefore, you want to ensure these boxes stand out on store shelves.
1.) Know Your Target Audience
While you may assume all custom boxes for vape cartridges will have the same target audience, this isn’t 100% true. Yes, it’s fair to say there’s a vape culture that prefers specific aesthetics. However, as vaping becomes more accessible, more types of people are getting their hands on these products.
Furthermore, you need to consider the type of people that purchase from your brand. Some cannabis companies are designed for young people, others for middle-aged people just learning about cannabis.
Consider your brand image and how you want your custom vape cartridge boxes to reflect that. Research your consumers’ preferences and let your results dictate the design process.
2.) Design with Function
Remember, your vape box is more than just a display. It’s what protects the product inside. With that, you’ll want to consider the following:
Source the Right Material
You have a lot of material options to consider, from sturdy cardboard to custom eco-friendly vape cartridge boxes. Again, when making this decision, you need to consider your brand identity.
For example, choose cardboard if you want a sleek and luxurious look. However, biodegradable materials are better options if your brand is known for sustainable sourcing.
Adopt Ergonomic Design Principles
With an ergonomic design, you ensure your vape packaging is attractive and practical. So, what should you consider?
This depends on what comes with each purchase. For example, some brands offer vape accessories (i.e. chargers) with the purchase of a pen. If your product does too, you’ll want to incorporate compartments for these accessories.
Other ergonomic factors add to the unboxing experience. For example, secure closures (or snap locks) are popular, textured surfaces can help to create a tactile experience, etc. The more thought you put into the unboxing experience, the happier your customers will be.
3.) Boost Your Aesthetic
Your custom box is what makes a first impression on customers. With that, you want to ensure the best possible design to represent your brand and retain customers.
You may need to experiment around with certain elements of your custom vape cartridge boxes, including:
If you have multiple products, you’ll want consistent design elements. Remember, these elements should resonate with your target audience and give them a quality unboxing experience.
It can be beneficial to get customers involved. Some brands ask customers to submit artwork for their custom packaging – making your company feel more like a community.
Final Word
While you may have a strong understanding of the marketing purposes behind custom vape cartridge boxes, we know not everyone has the time to develop the perfect design. That’s where Custom 420 comes in!
Our in-house design team can tailor packaging to your vision – ensuring to use the right materials for your brand identity. Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
by Scott Katz | Nov 19, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging, Child Resistant Cannabis Packaging
Child-resistant packaging is an essential feature of the cannabis industry. But as you go about your packaging design, you may wonder about the importance of child-resistant boxes. Here’s everything you need to know.
What are Child-Resistant Boxes?
Since cannabis is harmful to children, all manufacturers are required to place products in child-resistant packaging. Simply put, child-resistant boxes are packaging that reduces the risk of accidental consumption in children under 5 years old.
In other words, this packaging type makes it more difficult for children to access the contents. Children lack finely tuned motor skills and dexterity. These deficiencies make it difficult for them to complete multiple movements and varying pressures at once, all of which are features of child-resistant packaging.
History Behind Child-Resistant Boxes
Child-resistant packaging was introduced as a reaction to reports of child poisonings from accidental ingestion. More specifically, in 1970, the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA) was written to reduce child risk to harmful substances.
Since then, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has regulated child-resistant packaging. This organization establishes all the standards, rules, and regulations.
While “child-proof” packaging doesn’t exist, child-resistant packaging is real and has saved lives. It’s estimated the rate of death by poisoning in children under 5 has been reduced by 1.4 per million since the PPPA was introduced.
Why Child-Resistant Packaging is Required in the Cannabis Industry
Cannabis manufacturers need to incorporate child-resistant packaging for a few reasons, and these include the following:
Safety
In the cannabis industry, child safety is a top priority. Cannabis packaging can sometimes appeal to children, having colorful patterns or cartoon characters. Ensuring children can’t access the product inside is essential to avoid them mistaking such products for their favorite candy or snack.
Compliance
Within the cannabis industry, child-resistant packaging is a requirement in all states. In other words, by not using child-resistant packaging, you’re breaking the law and can be subjected to heavy fines or even jail time
It’s important to remember that such packaging goes beyond child-resistant packaging. In the cannabis industry, you must also have state-compliant labels (these vary depending on the state you operate from).
Consumer Trust
Since the cannabis industry is so new, gaining consumer trust has been a staple for all businesses. Most do this through various practices, such as third-party lab testing.
However, creating high-quality child-resistant packaging is another way to ensure customers that your products meet industry standards. This may lead to increased sales and further customer loyalty.
Quality Maintenance
While child-resistant packaging helps protect children, it also preserves cannabis. The multiple seals found in such packaging are a great way to prevent exposure to degrading elements, such as oxygen and moisture.
How to Determine if Your Box is Child-Resistant
If you’re not sure whether or not your cannabis packaging is child-resistant, some independent third-party companies can run lab-certified tests. These companies follow CPSC standards for child resistance and ensure whether or not your packaging meets these guidelines.
As mentioned above, consumer trust is an essential element of the cannabis industry. If you can receive a lab certification for your child-resistant boxes, this will only further consumer trust.
These tests will have children between 42 to 51 months of age participate in an attempt to open your packaging. If 85% of the children are unable to open the packaging within five minutes and 80% still can’t even after a demonstration, your packaging is considered to pass.
Can You Customize Child-Resistant Boxes?
Yes! While you need to ensure that your boxes meet child-resistant standards, this isn’t to say you’re not allowed to develop unique packaging. In fact, it’s encouraged you to get creative with your packaging to ensure brand identity and customer satisfaction.
If you’re unsure how to make your brand stand out, Custom 420 can help. Our in-house team of designers is keen on the cannabis industry and which types of products stand out to customers.
Final Word
Not sure where to source child-resistant boxes? Custom 420 offers various options, from child-resistant slide-tin boxes to 1-inch square child-resistant boxes. In other words, we have a box size for any of your needs!
We invite you to reach out through our contact form to get started.
Child-Resistant Boxes FAQs
What’s the difference between child-resistant and child-proof? There’s no such thing as “child-proof” packaging. In other words, no packaging can 100% prevent a child from opening it. However, child-resistant packaging refers to Mylar bags, boxes, and other containers that are extremely difficult for children to open.
What is the Child-Resistant Cap Act? This is a law that requires certain items (i.e. prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, household chemicals, etc.) to be placed in child-resistant packaging.
What is considered child-resistant packaging? As discussed above, there are certificate programs that run tests to see if your packaging is child-resistant. If 85% of children are unable to open a package and 80% are unable to open it after being shown a demonstration, then your packaging is considered child-resistant.
by Scott Katz | Nov 15, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging, Cannabis Packaging Design
Your cannabis box design is your customer’s first impression of your brand. So, you want to leave a good one. But how can you?
You need to consider essential elements for your cannabis display box design patent. These include the look of your brand and meeting state compliance labels.
Modern Cannabis Branding Problems
Cannabis sales have skyrocketed beyond expectations. In 2020 alone, U.S. sales saw a 67% increase, with the industry worth over $40 billion today. Still, behind all these statistics is an oversaturated market.
While plenty of cannabis experts are entering the space, many are uninformed of modern marketing practices and how to build a brand properly. Therefore, most packaging design concepts aren’t being considered for future-proof.
When it comes to branding, you need a design that makes people want your brand now and a decade from now. While there are many ways to go about this, the two most important factors are consumer trust and high-quality products.
But where do you go from here? And how do you get your brand’s values into the customer’s minds?
The Basics of Logo Design and Branding
In the world of cannabis, the marijuana leaf (a seven-pointed green leaf) has become the staple for both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) brands.
There’s no denying this is an effective means of displaying the product inside your packaging. However, there’s one problem with this imagery. Everyone’s using it.
As a result, incorporating the marijuana leaf as a logo isn’t the most effective way for your brand to stand out. Some may consider it an easy branding method. So, what options do you have?
We recommend incorporating the triangle shape of the marijuana leaf into your logo, but not letting it dominate the imagery. This is an effective way to indicate this is a marijuana product without being too in the customer’s face.
Still, you can also just avoid the green leaf entirely. Some brands opt for their own logo style and use other marketing tactics to reach a cannabis audience. For example, you may have an ad campaign that displays your products deep in the woods, a favorite “smoke spot” for any connoisseur.
Cannabis Box Packaging Design
Your cannabis packaging design is one of the most essential elements of branding. Beyond your logo, it’s how customers identify with your brand. And for this identification, you must ensure your packaging meets your company’s values.
Naturally, you have plenty of packaging options for your product type. For example, cannabis flower is preferred in Mylar bags. Whereas, cannabis concentrates work best in small glass jars.
Still, you can take packaging a step further with a box. There are two purposes for using a box in addition to other cannabis packaging.
A product box packaging allows further design properties that can’t be matched in other containers, such as die-cut. These are usually made with a flip-top lid and designed to stand out on store shelves.
A mailing box that contains your cannabis product (or an assortment of products). Since this is the first physical experience your customer may have with your brand, you want to make a good first impression. This involves a memorable unboxing experience.
Cannabis Box Design Examples
If you’re not 100% sure how you want your brand to be represented, you have a lot of options. Truly, the only limitation is your creativity.
Still, we all need a starting point. Here are a few considerations for how to define your brand identity:
Luxury Design
Since cannabis is considered a therapeutic product, luxury branding has been a way to appeal to those who want the best of the best.
Most brands opt for black coloring as it indicates luxury, sophistication, and grace. You may match this color scheme with green to indicate cannabis products.
Still, you don’t need the color black to indicate luxury. An elegant packaging incorporating embroidery and shiny texts may be all you need to get your message across.
Colorful Design
Speaking of color, some brands opt for other colorful designs to appeal to different audiences. To give you a better idea of how color and marketing work:
- Green – Represents nature and can appear calming.
- Red – Stimulates excitement and can drive action.
- Blue – Evokes trust and appeals to all genders.
- Yellow – Fosters friendliness and stimulates cheerfulness.
- Orange – Can appear energetic and creative.
- Purple – Indicates sophistication and allure.
- White – Provokes quality and simplicity.
Sustainable Design
Since cannabis is a natural product, it comes as no surprise most consumers prefer sustainable packaging. What does this mean?
In simple terms, it’s using recyclable packaging, usually made of cardboard or other biodegradable products. Such cannabis box designs ensure your brand is eco-friendly and can help build customer trust.
Legal Considerations
While cannabis may be legalized, not all forms of packaging are legal. Within the U.S., each state has its own laws and regulations concerning what’s allowed (and required) for cannabis packaging.
If you’re new to the industry, it’s essential to research your state’s requirements. While each differs slightly, some common requirements include:
- Avoid using cartoon characters
- Copyright infringements (i.e. using non-cannabis branding, like candy brands)
- Product content (i.e. THC count)
- Specific product labels (i.e. warning signs)
Final Word
As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into your cannabis box design. As such, you may feel overwhelmed about where to begin. That’s where Custom 420 comes in.
We help brands design logos and packaging to match this industry and their state’s requirements. Want to learn more? We invite you to reach out through our contact form.
Cannabis Box Design FAQs
What is the best packaging for cannabis? While this depends on the product type, flower is best stored in a glass container within a paper box. This not only protects your product but also gives you the ability to customize the design of your packaging.
What is cannabis flower packaging? Cannabis flower packaging comes in various shapes and sizes, from Mylar bags to glass jars. However, all flower packaging must be child-resistant, tamper-proof, and meet other legal compliances.
What is a cannabis pre-pack? A cannabis pre-pack (or prepackaging) refers to a product already packaged before selling it to the customer. This is the safest method of cannabis transactions and a requirement in most states.
by Scott Katz | Nov 12, 2024 | Cannabis Packaging
When it comes to cannabis packaging, there’s a lot to consider. Custom cannabis box packaging is more than just a way to hold your products. It’s a means of advertisement and interaction for your customers.
1.) Objective and Audience Focus
When you first consider your custom boxes, you need to keep in mind your:
- Packaging objectives
- Target audience
- Requirements
In other words, you want custom packaging that meets customer needs while also attracting new buyers through your brand image. Therefore, if you invest in custom cannabis box packaging, ensure to be thoughtful about it.
Since we’re working in the cannabis industry, you may figure all customers look the same. However, as this industry expands, new markets begin to open up. Consider your buyer’s persona and what they expect of packaging quality and design.
For example, maybe your cannabis line targets middle-aged women. As such, your packaging design may require a more luxurious or eco-friendly feel compared to packages designed for young men.
2.) Dimensions and Size Specifications
If you outsource your custom packaging, you must ensure your products match the box. In other words, your packaging partner needs to understand the exact dimensions your products require.
Specifying the exact size of your box is crucial to ensure a perfect fit for your product. Before ordering, verify the following box dimensions:
Furthermore, you’ll want to ensure each box is easy to handle and reliable for transportation.
On top of this, it’s worth incorporating a user-friendly and straightforward design. This ensures your box is hassle-free to open and close and provides quick product access.
Custom 420 already offers standardized box dimensions expected of the cannabis industry. This allows you to easily select the dimensions for your needs without the need to worry about unavailability.
3.) Materials and Strength
Different cannabis products will have various box requirements. For example, cannabis flower may not have as many limitations as edibles because of the ingredients.
You’ll want to determine the material of your box based on:
- The products inside
- The type of brand identity you want to achieve
- Customer convenience
At Custom 420, we have an extensive range of materials, from eco-friendly to fold-and-tuck solutions. You can learn more through our page on custom cannabis boxes.
4.) Brand Identity and Visual Concept
When you outsource custom cannabis box packaging, you need to ensure you have full customization of your product design. This is essential depending on various factors, including:
- Your core values
- Target audience
- Unique selling proposition
- Mission and vision statements
- Existing brand elements
- Industry culture and trends
While you can outsource from a few different retailers, we highly recommend going with a brand within the cannabis industry. These companies don’t just understand the visual appeal required for this industry, they also know state-compliant regulations.
5.) Printing Selections
You can add value and professionalism to your brand through well-designed and -printed packaging. When it comes to custom boxes with logos, you have a lot of finish options to choose from, including:
- Gloss
- Matte
- Metallic
- Soft Touch Matte
- Matte Metallic
- Gloss Metallic
These finish elements can add to the customer experience. For example, you can add a raised logo or vibrant color palettes for the specific design you want.
6.) Production Time and Expenses
As a business owner, you want to ensure your production speed is always on time. When outsourcing, check customer reviews to indicate whether or not a brand can meet your expectations.
Furthermore, you’ll want to know how much production of your custom cannabis boxes will cost you. Get a breakdown of overall costs and ensure it aligns with your budget.
Communication is key when it comes to these processes. Understand your supplier’s timeline, whether or not they require additional quality assurance checks, and if they can meet your needs.
7.) Delivery and Storage Solutions
Consider the shipping and storage needs of your custom cannabis packaging. This will help ensure that your chosen provider offers both value for money and practicality for your business.
Evaluate the minimum order quantities (MOQs) when selecting a supplier. For example, Custom 420 requires a minimum of 1,000 units per order. Admittedly, this may seem too large for smaller clients. However, running less than 1,000 units is not cost-effective based on equipment and materials.
Still, it’s also essential to consider your available storage space. If storage is limited, look for a company that provides complimentary warehousing options.
Final Word
Think you’re ready to order your cannabis packing boxes? Custom 420 is here to help! We invite you to reach out through our contact form to learn more about your options.
Custom Cannabis Box Packaging FAQs
How to make a custom box? To make a custom box the first step is to measure and create a box design template. After this we add your design to the template. Then the templates are used to make dies or output to a digital machine for cutting and printing.
Where can I package my product? For cannabis products, you can’t store them directly in a box. Instead, you’ll need to store the product in a glass jar or container and then place that into a box.
